Thanks to the support of the Bathurst RSL Club, the Local Emerging Artists Program (LEAP) has expanded to include more workshops, performances and opportunities for young people in the Bathurst region.

During the January school holidays, the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (BMEC) is running workshops where tutors Nel Kentish and Phil McDowell will work with teenagers aged 13 to 18 to begin developing a new theatre show. 

Workshops are to be the beginning of a new project and a great opportunity for young people to try their hand at drama, as well as learning how to work as a team.

Tutor Nel Kentish said it is the second year she has been involved in LEAP.

“This month’s program runs on January 17, 18, 19 and 20. It will run from 10am to 4pm each day, but 10am to 1pm on Saturday,” she said. 

“Young people will be able to learn how to use sound effects in dramatic scenes and they’ll use iPads with new technology to create scenes. 

“It’s a cheap program to get kids to come along, especially those with experience. You can also come along even if you have little or no experience.

“By the end of the week, we should have an idea of what we want to do for our next project.”

The last time BMEC ran a similar workshop, a very successful project culminated in the development of 17 Things The Government Doesn’t Want You To Know About The Internet.

The show was performed at BMEC and at the Australian Theatre for Young People, in Sydney, with performers having gone on to form strong friendships. 

The cost for the four day program is $40. Contact BMEC on 6333 6161 or by email at tickets@bathurst.nsw.gov.au to register your interest.